The early detection of lung cancer during follow-up of patients undergoing endobronchial one-way valve treatment for emphysema.

We describe the early detection of lung cancer during the follow-up of two emphysematous patients undergoing endobronchial treatment with one-way valves for severe dyspnea. In both cases, the lung function improvement achieved after the valves placement allowed their surgical treatment. In additional to standard follow-up for evaluating the progression of emphysema, such patients should be enrolled in a screening program. It may allow the early detection of lung cancer with the possibility for surgery in accordance with respiratory function of patient.